MCV reports this week that WH Smith are pioneering a new games retail system using in-store duplication facilities and store-specific packaging. The system is on trial at a couple of branches and could be extended to all their major stores. Customers select a title then the operator copies the software onto a blank CD. The duplication process can take up to 30 minutes and then the customer is presented the copied CD in a small box. "In the last two years we have transformed as a retailer and the duplication system allows us to give a wider choice to customers," a WH Smith spokesperson told MCV. Over 30 PC and Mac titles are in the range including Actua Soccer 3 and Tomb Raider. Clever, eh?

Also in MCV is news that Infogrames have completed the £1 million purchase of DID, whose founder Martin Kenwright has departed along with several coders. MCV also reports that Sega are making the Dreamcast available to rent from 1,400 Hollywood Video stores in the United States from July, some two months before the console hits retail.

Can Sony produce the Emotion Engine chips at a viable price, asks MCV? At 238 millimetres, it's 80 per cent larger than a Pentium III processor and some industry insiders reckon that Sony won't be able to produce PlayStation 2 for the anticipated £199 RRP.

Once again, the cover of CTW (Computer Trade Weekly) is surrounded. This time with an advertisement for Alien Vs Predator. On the cover proper comes news that retailers are worrying about the dearth of top PlayStation games due for release. There's also conjecture that Trip Hawkins' 3D0 company could go public for a second time. Apparently, 3D0 want become a major player in the software market and expand into Europe.

Another interesting story is that of Dixons' decision to release a £10 PlayStation game bundle which includes the games Duke Nukem, Doom Platinum and Dead Ball Zone. Apparently it's a 'one off' rather than an attempt to start a price war. And the Duke Nukem has an 18 certificate so only those of a certain age can buy the pack. "Dad. Daaaaaaaaaad... "